November 26, 2008 T.R. Sullivan of MLB.com believes the Red Sox may be willing to part with Justin Masterson if they acquire Japanese hurler Junichi Tazawa.
Our View:As of now, Masterson's role with the Red Sox for 2009 is uncertain. Masterson could possibly be part of a trade to land one of the Rangers' catchers that they covet, such as Taylor Teagarden.
October 21, 2008 Justin Masterson is said to still have an uncertain role for 2009, according to the Boston Globe. Boston Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein stated that his status,"... could be affected by what we're able to accomplish this winter." His role may be decided in part by Clay Buchholz's, as the Red Sox are hopeful that he can regain his form from early last season.
Our View:The Boston rotation will have Josh Beckett, Dice-K, and Jon Lester locked in for sure next season. Tim Wakefield could always be the 4th or 5th guy, but this should leave one spot open for either Buchholz or Masterson. It seems unlikely that Curt Schilling will be able to get back to where he was, based on his injuries. The Red Sox are in a win-win situation with Masterson as a strong setup guy for Jonathan Papelbon, or a back of the rotation starter.
October 6, 2008 Justin Masterson is firmly in the Red Sox plans for 2009, though the club isn't quite certain as to which role he will be asked to fill, according to the Associated Press.
Our View:Masterson went 4-3 with a 3.67 ERA in nine starts this season while his work out of the bullpen was even sharper (2-2, 2.36 ERA in 27 appearances). With his stuff, he is primed for success in either role.
July 24, 2008 Justin Masterson made his first appearance on Wednesday since coming off of the disabled list earlier in the week. He threw 2.2 innings, allowed no hits and struck out three.
Our View:Masterson was good as a starter earlier in the season but it looks like he will be more of a spot starter and long reliever from here out.
July 20, 2008 Justin Masterson has been recalled from Triple-A Pawtuckett, according to the AP. The team placed David Aardsma on the 15-day DL with a strained right groin to make room on the roster.
Our View:Masterson fared well as a starter this season, but he looks to work out of the bullpen for now. He could prove to be effective as a setup man to closer Jon Papelbon, but his fantasy value will be limited in standard leagues that don't use middle relievers.
